Raila Claims Gachagua's Family Might Have Collaborated With Colonialist

On Monday, June 4th, the debate on whether DP Gachagua came from a lineage dominated by MauMau fighters cropped up again during a press conference held by Azimio Leader Raila Odinga. 

Mr Odinga cast doubts on whether Gachagua's family had participated in the fight for Kenya's independence, further claiming that they might have collaborated with the colonialists. The Azimio leader suggested that Gachagua Wang'ombe who was assassinated in 1953 might be might related to the Deputy President because they share the same surname and come from the same constituency. The opposition leader dared Mr Gachagua to prove his lineage by showing evidence that he is the son of a MauMau fighter.

“You have been bragging that you are a son of Mau Mau together with Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichungw’ah.  I want to challenge you today Gachagua to declare your relationship with Gachagua Wang’ombe who was assassinated in 1953,” Raila 

Raila also challenged Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung'wah, to provide proof of his parents' involvement in the struggle for independence. Earlier in the presser, Azimio leaders from the Mount Kenya region criticized the Finance Bill, claiming that it would have a negative impact on businesses.

Azimio principal Martha Karua rebutted the proposed tax measures, saying that they are aimed at sabotaging business in the region. She also criticized Gachagua for stereotyping Mt Kenya youth as drunkards, claiming that it displays the region in a bad light. The ongoing political feud between Raila and Gachagua comprises a series of verbal jabs, including recent remarks by the former Prime Minister regarding the Mau Mau. On June 3rd, Gachagua accused Raila of promoting unrealistic political ideals that mislead his follower. He decried Raila's suggestion of splitting Kenya based on political affiliations.